The Colorado state budget, totaling $43.9 billion, has passed in the Senate and is now headed back to the Joint Budget Committee to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions. The House approved the budget and 62 out of 63 accompanying bills known as “orbitals.” One bill that failed to pass was Senate Bill 251, which would have repealed a state kidney disease task force prematurely. The Department of Public Health & Environment supported the repeal to save money.
The Joint Budget Committee will act as a conference committee to review and approve amendments that were passed in both chambers. Some approved amendments include funding for the National Cybersecurity Center, restoring provider rates, and adding funds to the primary care fund. The budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year is $3.5 billion more than the previous year, with a significant portion of the increase in cash funds.
The deadline for the budget adoption is fast approaching, with the governor having 10 days to act once it is sent to his desk. A controversial footnote in the budget bill sets guidelines for the state’s wolf reintroduction program, which has faced opposition from agricultural organizations and county officials. Failure to comply with the guidelines could result in funding being halted for the program.
Overall, the state budget process is nearing completion, with the governor’s approval being the final step. The budget includes various amendments to fund important programs and services while also addressing contentious issues such as the wolf reintroduction program.
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